Venezuela has been in freefall for years with growing political discontent further fuelled by skyrocketing hyperinflation, power cuts and shortages of food and medicine, resulting in more than three million Venezuelans leaving the country. However, since January 24 the South American country is waking up every day with 2 presidents, one having the support of the people and the other the control of the judiciary and the army.

The US, Canada and 14 Latin American nations officially recognised Juan Guaidó as the legitimate president of Venezuela shortly after the latter had said he would take over executive powers. Italy has vetoed an EU statement on the crisis and instead, France, Germany and the UK led the way on separate recognition by a group of 19 EU states.

The Martens Centre has the pleasure to invite you to a public event to discuss the perspectives for further developments of the crisis, including international aid, diplomatic initiatives and the likelihood of military operations. Is this a replay of time-honoured games in spheres of influence in the shape of a new great power conflict? Or are the same universal principles at play as in Ukraine’s struggle for democracy and the rule of law? And how can the EU more effectively speak with one voice and become a more relevant global actor?